Seasonal expenses, fluctuating energy prices and the continuing increases in the cost of living mean many of our customers are wondering how they’ll manage this winter. Household budgets are under pressure, and we want to help you to lessen the impact of these changes wherever possible.
Here are a few money saving hacks from the Money Matters Team:
Make sure you’re not missing out
£10 billion of benefits go unclaimed every year. That’s money put aside by the Government to help ease the money worries of people who are entitled to support. We make it our job to make sure you aren’t missing out. Last financial year we recovered a record-breaking £6.5million for our customers.
Don’t overpay for your energy
Make sure you’re on the best tariff to suit your needs and circumstances. We can point you in the right direction to get this sorted and can help with fuel debt and get you signed up to priority services if you’re eligible.
Check out discounts
The Warm Home Discount Scheme is a one-off £150 discount off your electricity bill. If you’re eligible, your electricity supplier will apply the discount to your bill. Please note that the money is not paid to you. Contact your supplier for more information
You’ll usually get the discount automatically if you’re eligible
Make sure you’re getting the payments you’re entitled to
If you were born before 22 September 1959 you could get between £100 and £300 to help you pay your heating bills for winter 2025 to 2026. This is known as a ‘Winter Fuel Payment’. If you’re eligible, you’ll usually be paid automatically but we can double check for you.
Save on water
The SupportPlus tariff from Northumbrian Water can reduce your water bill by up to 40%. Speak to us to check your eligibility. We can help with water debt too.
Social tariffs: cheaper broadband and phone packages
Social tariffs are cheaper broadband and phone packages for people claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit and some other benefits.
They’re delivered in the same way as normal packages, just at a lower price.
You can find out more about social tariffs and if you qualify for them on Ofcom’s website. Give the Money Matters team a call to find out more.
Ditch unnecessary insurances.
It’s good to be covered but do you know what’s really included and whether your policies unnecessarily overlap? The Money Matters team will help you to review and simplify.
Worried about your rent?
Every customer has a dedicated Customer Accounts Officer who you can speak to. We do everything we can to make paying rent as easy as possible, finding a rent payment plan that fits best with your income and circumstances, and getting you set up with a direct debit so you never fall behind. Contact your Customer Accounts Officer on 0808 164 0111.
Say no to loan sharks
Loan sharks often seem friendly at first and will give an easy cash loan, often with no forms or paperwork. They might operate in your local neighbourhood, in a pub, gym or even where you work, making it easy for you to get the money. Loan sharks often target some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, leaving them struggling to repay their loans because of extra charges and large amounts of interest. Loan sharks often use threats of violence to recover their money.
Get some reliable debt advice.
We’re a referral partner for the Money Adviser Network so can get you specialist debt advice quickly – sometimes on the same day. If you’re looking for alternatives to high-cost loans or want to start saving, we can signpost you to your local credit union, too.
If you’re struggling with money, please contact Karbon Homes’ Money Matters Team by emailing moneymatters@karbonhomes.co.uk or calling 0808 164 0111. They can provide free and confidential advice and guidance whatever your circumstances.
